The Council of Science Editors and its Editorial Policy Committee encourage everyone involved in the journal publishing process to take responsibility for promoting integrity in scientific journal publishing. This paper will serve as a basis for developing and improving effective practices to achieve that goal.

Through this White Paper and other activities, the Editorial Policy Committee aims to open dialogue about ethical publishing practices, inform those involved in the editorial process, and foster informed decision-making by editors. We intend to work with other professional organizations to shape the scientific journal environment so the integrity of our publications is upheld. With the understanding that what may be appropriate for one discipline or organization may not be so for another, the White Paper intends to inform and guide rather than direct.